Congress Faces Dilemma Over MPs in Kerala Assembly Polls

The Congress party is debating whether to allow its MPs to contest the Kerala Assembly elections. This decision has delayed the release of its candidate list. Tensions arose when MP K Sudhakaran's candidacy was rejected, causing discontent within the party. The central leadership is working to resolve the issue.

The Congress leadership is facing a challenging decision over whether to allow its Members of Parliament (MPs) to contest the Kerala Assembly polls. This has caused a delay in releasing the party's second list of candidates for the state, according to sources.

K Sudhakaran, an MP from Kannur, was reportedly upset after his name was not cleared by the Central Election Committee for the upcoming elections. Sudhakaran was poised to announce his stance at a media briefing but held back after reassurances from senior party leaders, including former Defence Minister A K Antony.

The situation highlights internal conflicts, as the party's High Command deliberates on a strategy that avoids triggering Lok Sabha bypolls, which could affect the Congress's standing in Parliament. As of now, five MPs are eager to join the Assembly race, though they await a consensus from party leadership.

(With inputs from agencies.)